With the long, dark days and nippy weather (that’s putting it lightly), it can be tough to come to terms with winter. However, we’ve got just what you need to shift that mindset and finally feel content with the cold. You can find a state of wintry bliss through the Scandinavian concept of Hygge (pronounced Hoo-ga). Hygge roughly translates to a feeling of coziness and wellbeing within everyday life – something we could all use more of when the sun sets at 4:30pm for months!
When we conjure up the perfect image of a cozy night in our mind, we see a happy dog cuddling up next to us or on our laps (even if they’re too big to be a lapdog)! So we decided to channel some Scandinavian lifestyle habits to create this go-to Hygge guide for you and your pup to have a cozy, happy winter.
Make a nice fire with your pup
Curling up by the fireplace while they take a cozy afternoon nap is peak Hygge, if you ask us. Grab a good book and listen to the fire crackle while wrapped up in a warm sweater (one for each of you) and your fluffiest blanket. No fireplace? No problem! Just grab a mug of hot cocoa or a cup of hot tea and some candles to hit that peak comfort.
These cozy naps can feel particularly wonderful following a long walk with your dog in the crisp air. Taking off your scarf and mittens and settling into the couch never feels better than after you and your pup have been active.
Pet your Pup! (This should be a given!)
If Hygge is about celebrating and perfecting everyday wellbeing, then it’s also the perfect excuse to spend some quality time just petting your dog. Not only is it the perfect way to help your pup relax, but petting your dog has been proven to release endorphins. It’s the best way to put yourself in a better mood!
Cook using simple ingredients
Keep things simple when trying to embody this lifestyle. Whether that’s by making sure that you’re not overwhelming yourself by cooking a recipe with a million directions, or making sure that your pup gets the proper nutrition with simple and high quality ingredients.
Turn off your phone!
Finally, make sure to unplug (after you read this)! It can be easy to get caught up in the texts, emails, and endless scrolling and become overwhelmed. Let yourself slow down and take a page out of your pup’s book: put down your phone and take a breather with them. It’s the perfect way to live in the moment.
We may not be complete Hygge experts, but any excuse to spend more time with your pup has got to be a good thing! 🙂
